Top 10 Hanging Plants for a Dreamy Outdoor Nook

4. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) – The Lush Green Cloud

If you want to instantly add a feeling of established grace and a whole lotta green to your outdoor nook, the Boston Fern is your go-to. These plants are classics for a reason! They’re like a big, fluffy cloud of green that just makes any space feel more inviting and, well, alive. They are fantastic foliage hanging plants.

Those Gorgeous Feathery Fronds!

What makes a Boston Fern so special? It’s all about those feathery fronds! They have these long, arching stems that are just covered in tiny, delicate leaflets, creating this incredibly full, verdant look. A happy Boston Fern can get quite large and will spill beautifully over the sides of a hanging basket, creating a real statement piece.

I remember my grandma always had huge Boston Ferns on her porch, and they just looked so elegant and timeless. They weren’t trying to be flashy with bright colors, but their sheer green-ness was stunning. It’s a kind of beauty that feels very natural and calming. It’s no wonder they’re popular for porch plants and creating that welcoming Southern charm.

Creating Their Ideal Jungle Vibe: Humidity is King!

Now, here’s the thing with Boston Ferns: they have a bit of a reputation for being a tad fussy. And honestly? It often comes down to one main thing: humidity. These guys love, love, love humidity. Think of a lush, misty rainforest – that’s their happy place. This makes them naturally well-suited for creating a cool, refreshing oasis, especially if you live in a place that’s already quite humid, like Atlanta or Houston.

If you’re in a drier climate, though, keeping a Boston Fern happy can feel like a bit of a battle. I learned this firsthand! I got this gorgeous fern, hung it up, and within a few weeks, the tips of the fronds started getting all brown and crispy. I was so frustrated! I was watering it, it was in indirect light like it’s supposed to be, but it just looked sad. It turns out my outdoor spot, while shaded, was just too dry for its liking. It was a real lesson in matching the plant to the microclimate.

Tips for Keeping Your Green Cloud Happy

So, if you’re determined to have a beautiful Boston Fern (and who could blame you?), here are a couple of care tips I’ve picked up. First, regular misting can really help, especially if your air is on the dry side. Just a light spritz on the fronds once or twice a day can make a big difference. Some folks even put a humidifier nearby if they’re growing them indoors, but for an outdoor nook, misting is your best friend.

Second, they like consistently moist soil. Not soggy, mind you – we don’t want root rot! But you don’t want the soil to dry out completely either. It’s a bit of a balance. I find that a good quality potting mix that retains some moisture but still drains well is perfect. And of course, make sure your hanging container has good drainage holes. Keeping them out of harsh, direct sun is also crucial as that will scorch their delicate fronds.

The Dreamy Factor: Calm, Abundance, and Timeless Style

So, what’s the “dreamy factor” of a Boston Fern? For me, it evokes a sense of calm, natural abundance, and timeless elegance. There’s something incredibly soothing about being surrounded by that much lush greenery. It’s the kind of plant that makes you want to slow down, take a deep breath, and just relax.

They’re perfect for creating a relaxing, spa-like nook. Imagine one or two large Boston Ferns framing your favorite outdoor chair, maybe with some soft lighting. Instant tranquility! They don’t shout for attention, but their quiet, verdant beauty makes a profound impact on the feel of a space. It’s a touch of classic, effortless style that never gets old.

Boston Ferns really do bring such a wonderful sense of peace and lushness, don’t they? If you’re up for giving them the humidity they crave, they’ll reward you tenfold. Now, if you’re looking for something a bit more on the sun-loving and super-prolific blooming side, our next plant is like a party in a pot! Click the “Next” button below to check out Plant #5: Million Bells!